Marin Voice: We need immigration reform that is compassionate and fair

IMMIGRATION reform is in the air. Finally, legislators are having serious conversations about reforming our draconian and labyrinthine immigration laws. But are they having the right conversation?

In the rush to get reform and satisfy those who believe we should just slam shut the country's doors, we are overlooking an opportunity to create humane and fair reform while acting in our best interest.

When the conversation turns to punishment and restriction by making those who are already here "go to the back of the line," we are off base.

Consider that the U.S. economy needs new Americans to remain viable over the long term. An inspired workforce to carry the weight of building our infrastructure and generating tax revenue is already among us and ready to take on the task.

Punishment, fines and long waits don't reflect our values. The aspiring Americans who have endured great hardship and grueling journeys to become part of this great nation do not deserve to be punished any more than their predecessors who came through Ellis Island in the great migration of the early and mid 20th century. They embody the American spirit.

These new Americans are eager to serve and carry the weight of building our country. They will follow in the footsteps of all who have come before them who have made this country great, and lead a much-needed renaissance on our economy and our infrastructure.

Consider the story of Refugio, who came to the U.S. from Guatemala. His was a harrowing journey through Mexico and into the United States under the cover of darkness and at great cost.

What he left behind was a formerly idyllic village that had lost its ability to be self-sufficient because the growth of corporate farms and genetically modified crops in the US drove down prices.

His village had a self-sustaining economy that grew subsistence and cash crops to fund the needs of the people. But with American corn produced so cheaply and the price of seed driven high, small farms began to close for not being able to make a profit. There was no longer an economic base in his village, and he and other men were forced to look elsewhere, and the United States was their only option.

So he left his family to support them from afar. His village was left bereft of the men. The children were without fathers and the only way for families to be together was for someone to make the hazardous journey from one country to the other. His story is no different than those of European and other immigrants who came before him.

Let's make sure as we consider immigration reform that we keep American values at the forefront. We are a country that values families and fairness. Immigration reform should not punish those brave and committed new Americans who left their homes and families to be part of the American dream.

To make our newest pilgrims go "to the back of the line" is not only out of synch with our values, but it is impractical. With the current limits on visas, some may have to wait up to 30 or more years to get a visa. To make people learn English first is not necessary, because, as with past immigrants, English skills are their top priority so they can survive in the workplace.

Let's create immigration reform that values compassion and fairness, while acting in our own self-interest. Welcoming and embracing 11 million new Americans who want only to be part of this country does both of those things.

Tom Wilson is executive director of the Canal Alliance in San Rafael. www.canalalliance.org